JP4006983B2 - Electro-optical device and electronic apparatus - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an electro-optical device and an electronic apparatus including the same.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Electronic devices such as personal computers and portable devices are required to be small and thin, and large-scale light sources with high directivity are used as light sources for display devices (electro-optical devices) of such electronic devices. Is very disadvantageous (not actually used).
[0003]
For this reason, for example, a liquid crystal display device uses a method in which light from a light source is guided to the back surface of the liquid crystal panel by a light guide, and the liquid crystal panel is illuminated from the back surface using a reflector, a scattering plate, a prism sheet, or the like .
[0004]
However, the conventional display device has the following problems.
For example, in the case of a display device having a transmissive or transflective liquid crystal panel and a backlight (light source), a portion that does not transmit light is formed by a drive circuit of the liquid crystal panel or a reflective plate (reflective electrode). Is done. The light emitted from the light source, reflected by the portion through which the light does not pass, and returned is absorbed by any part and cannot be used. For this reason, the use efficiency of the light from a light source is low.
[0005]
Moreover, although the directivity of light can be improved by using a prism sheet, even if the directivity is improved, the range is about ± 30 ° at most. For this reason, even if a microlens array is used, the light from a light source cannot be efficiently condensed on the transparent window part of a liquid crystal panel.
[0006]
In particular, a transflective liquid crystal panel may be illuminated with light transmitted through a pinhole-shaped opening (translucent window portion) provided in the reflector. In this case, incident external light Of these, the ratio of the light reflected by the reflector (hereinafter simply referred to as “reflectance”) and the ratio of the light from the light source that passes through the aperture (hereinafter simply referred to as “transmittance”) , Respectively, determined by the ratio between the area of the reflector and the area of the opening. For this reason, if the area of the opening is increased in order to increase the transmittance, the area of the reflector is decreased, and the reflectance is decreased. Conversely, if the area of the opening is decreased in order to increase the reflectance, The transmittance is reduced (a trade-off relationship).
[0007]
As described above, in the conventional display device (electro-optical device), the light from the light source cannot be efficiently collected on the transparent window portion, and the use efficiency of the light emitted from the light source is low.
[0008]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
  It is an object of the present invention to use light emitted from a light sourceIn particular, even if there is a slight shift in the light collection position from the light source due to errors in the manufacturing process, displacement, thermal expansion, changes over time, etc. Variability can be reduced or eliminatedAn electro-optical device and an electronic apparatus including the same are provided.
[0009]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  Such purposes are as follows (1) to (24This is achieved by the present invention.
[0010]
  (1) An electro-optical device having a plurality of point light sources, a microlens array in which a plurality of microlenses are arranged, and a light modulation element having a plurality of light-transmissive windows,
  The microlens array is configured so that light from the plurality of point light sources is condensed on the translucent window portion.And
The light from the point light source forms an image on a surface that passes through each of the light transmitting window portions, and the length in the first direction of the image of the point light source on the surface is the first length of the light transmitting window portion. The length in the second direction that is longer than the length in the direction and perpendicular to the first direction of the image of the point light source on the surface is greater than the length in the second direction of the light-transmitting window portion. Configured to be shorterAn electro-optical device.
[0011]
  (2) An electro-optical device having a plurality of point light sources, a microlens array in which a plurality of microlenses are arranged, and a light modulation element having a plurality of light-transmissive windows,
  The point light source, the microlens of the microlens array, and the translucent window portion are arranged so that light from the plurality of point light sources is condensed on the translucent window portion by the microlens array. TheAnd
The light from the point light source forms an image on a surface that passes through each of the light transmitting window portions, and the length in the first direction of the image of the point light source on the surface is the first length of the light transmitting window portion. The length in the second direction that is longer than the length in the direction and perpendicular to the first direction of the image of the point light source on the surface is greater than the length in the second direction of the light-transmitting window portion. Configured to be shorterAn electro-optical device.
[0012]
  (3) An electro-optical device having a plurality of point light sources, a microlens array in which a plurality of microlenses are arranged, and a light modulation element having a plurality of light-transmissive windows,
  The point light source, the microlens of the microlens array, and the light transmitting window so that the microlens of the microlens array focuses light from the plurality of point light sources on the light transmitting window portions. Part and are arrangedAnd
The light from the point light source forms an image on a surface that passes through each of the light transmitting window portions, and the length in the first direction of the image of the point light source on the surface is the first length of the light transmitting window portion. The length in the second direction that is longer than the length in the direction and perpendicular to the first direction of the image of the point light source on the surface is greater than the length in the second direction of the light-transmitting window portion. Configured to be shorterAn electro-optical device.
[0013]
  (4)Light from the point light source forms an image on a surface that passes through each of the light transmitting window portions, and the light transmitting window portion is included in the image of the point light source on the surface in the first direction within the surface. And, in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction in the plane, the image of the point light source on the plane is configured to be included in the transparent window portion (1) The electro-optical device according to any one of (1) to (3).
[0014]
  (5)5. The electro-optical device according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein an outline of the image of the point light source on the surface has a pair of linear portions substantially parallel to the first direction.
[0015]
  (6)The electro-optical device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein an outline of the light transmission window portion includes a pair of linear portions substantially parallel to the second direction.
[0016]
  (7)The pitch of the point light source is Ps, the pitch of the transparent window portion is Pa, the pitch of the micro lens of the micro lens array is PL, the optical distance between the point light source and the micro lens array is Ls, and the micro The electro-optical device according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the optical distance between the lens array and the light transmission window portion is La, and is configured to satisfy a condition represented by the following formula: .
PL = { Ps · Pa / (Ps + Pa) } ・ N (where n is a natural number)
La / Ls = Pa / Ps
[0017]
  (8)The pitch of the point light source is Ps, the pitch of the transparent window portion is Pa, the pitch of the micro lens of the micro lens array is PL, the optical distance between the point light source and the micro lens array is Ls, and the micro The electro-optical device according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the optical distance between the lens array and the light transmission window portion is La, and is configured to satisfy a condition represented by the following formula: .
PL = { Ps · Pa / (Ps + Pa) } ・ N (where n is a natural number excluding 2)
La / Ls = Pa / Ps
[0018]
  (9)The electro-optical device according to (7) or (8), wherein the pitch Ps of the point light sources is larger than the pitch Pa of the light transmitting window portion.
[0019]
  (10)The electro-optical device according to (7) or (8), wherein the pitch Ps of the point light sources is equal to the pitch Pa of the light transmission window portions.
[0020]
  (11)The pitch of the point light sources is set so that the amount of light from the plurality of point light sources is substantially uniform on the surface that penetrates each light-transmitting window portion when the microlens array is not provided. The electro-optical device according to any one of (1) to (10) above.
[0021]
  (12)In a state where the microlens array is not provided, when the standard deviation of the light amount distribution of the light from the point light source on the surface passing through each light transmission window is σ, the pitch of the point light source is 2.3σ or less. The electro-optical device according to any one of (1) to (10).
[0022]
  (13)In the state where the microlens array is not provided, when the maximum value of the light amount of the light from the plurality of point light sources on the surface passing through each light transmission window is a and the minimum value is b, the pitch of the point light sources is The electro-optical device according to any one of (1) to (10), wherein the light quantity ratio b / a is set to be 0.9 or more.
[0023]
  (14)The light from the point light source forms an image on a surface passing through each of the light transmitting window portions, and the area of the portion where the image of the point light source and the light transmitting window portion overlap on the surface is the image of the point light source. The electro-optical device according to any one of (1) to (13), wherein the electro-optical device is configured not to change as much as possible even when the light transmission window portion and the light transmission window portion are relatively displaced.
[0024]
  (15)The area of the surface where the image of the point light source and the transparent window portion overlap is such that the image of the point light source and the transparent window portion are in the first direction in the plane and / or the first. The electro-optical device according to (14), wherein the electro-optical device is configured so as not to change as much as possible even when it is shifted relative to a second direction perpendicular to the direction.
[0025]
  (16)The shape of the translucent window portion is substantially square or substantially rectangular, and the shape of the image of the point light source on the surface is substantially square or substantially rectangular, according to any one of the above (1) to (15). Electro-optic device.
[0026]
  (17)The electro-optical device according to (16), wherein a predetermined one side of the light transmission window portion and a predetermined one side of the image of the point light source on the surface are substantially parallel.
[0027]
  (18)The electro-optical device according to any one of (1) to (17), wherein the micro lens array is a micro Fresnel lens array.
[0028]
  (19)The electro-optical device according to any one of (1) to (18), wherein the microlens array is formed by injection molding or a 2P method.
[0029]
  (20)The electro-optical device according to any one of (1) to (19), wherein the light modulation element is a transmissive liquid crystal panel or a transflective liquid crystal panel.
[0030]
  (21)The electro-optical device according to any one of (1) to (19), wherein the light modulation element is a transflective liquid crystal panel.
[0031]
  (22)The electro-optical device according to any one of (1) to (21), which is a direct-view or projection-type display device.
[0032]
  (23)An electronic apparatus comprising the electro-optical device according to any one of (1) to (22).
[0033]
  (24)The electronic device according to (23), wherein the electronic device is a personal computer, a mobile phone, or a digital still camera.
[0038]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an electro-optical device and an electronic apparatus according to the invention will be described in detail based on preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings.
[0039]
FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view schematically showing the configuration of the first embodiment of the electro-optical device of the invention. In addition, in order to avoid that a figure becomes complicated, the oblique line which shows that it is a cross section is abbreviate | omitted in FIG. Further, in FIG. 1, only the main optical axis of light passing through the center of the microlens 32 is shown in order to avoid the drawing from becoming complicated.
[0040]
A display device (electro-optical device) 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a transflective display device, and includes a light source means 2 that is a backlight, a microlens array plate 3, and a semitransparent window portion. And a transflective liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) 4.
[0041]
The light source means 2 is located on the lower side in FIG. 1, the liquid crystal panel 4 is located on the upper side in FIG. 1, and the microlens array plate 3 is located between the light source means 2 and the liquid crystal panel 4.
[0042]
The light source means 2 and the microlens array plate 3 are bonded (bonded) with an adhesive layer (adhesive) 5.
[0043]
Further, the microlens array plate 3 and the liquid crystal panel 4 are bonded to each other with an adhesive (not shown) at their outer peripheral portions (positions that do not hinder display).
[0044]
The light source means 2 includes a light source unit 21 and a housing (mirror box) 22. A plurality of protrusions 23 are formed on the bottom surface in the housing 22 (the lower surface in FIG. 1). The shape of the protrusion 23 in the longitudinal section is substantially triangular.
[0045]
A plurality of openings (pinholes) 25 are formed in a matrix in the upper wall portion 221 of the housing 22 in FIG.
[0046]
In addition, a reflective film 24 is provided on the surface of the surface (inner surface) of the housing 22 except for the plurality of openings 25 and on the surface of the protrusion 23. The reflection film 24 is made of, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy.
[0047]
Almost all of the light emitted from the light source unit 21 is reflected once or a plurality of times by the reflective film 24 and emitted from each opening 25 as shown in FIGS.
[0048]
Therefore, in the light source means 2, the light emitting unit (portion that emits light) of the point light source is configured by the opening 25.
[0049]
The microlens array plate 3 includes a transparent substrate 30 and a microlens array 31 provided on the upper side of the substrate 30 in FIG.
[0050]
The microlens array 31 has a plurality of microlenses (condensing lenses) 32 having positive power, and these microlenses 32 are arranged in a matrix, that is, in a matrix (in the horizontal direction in FIG. 1 and in FIG. 1). In a direction perpendicular to the paper surface).
[0051]
As the micro lens 32, a micro Fresnel lens (diffraction lens) is preferably used. In other words, it is preferable to use a micro Fresnel lens array as the micro lens array 31.
[0052]
Thereby, the thickness of the microlens array 31 (microlens 32) can be reduced, which is advantageous for miniaturization and thinning.
[0053]
The higher the refractive index of the constituent material of the microlens array 31 (microlens 32), the better. In addition, the refractive index of a general optical material is about 1.45 to 1.65.
[0054]
The microlens array 31 and the substrate 30 are made of various resins such as acrylic resin and epoxy resin, and various glasses, respectively.
[0055]
The constituent material of the microlens array 31 and the constituent material of the substrate 30 may be the same or different.
[0056]
Further, the microlens array 31 and the substrate 30 may be formed integrally or may be formed separately.
[0057]
The molding method of the microlens array plate 3, that is, the molding method of the microlens array 31 and the substrate 30 is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include injection molding, 2P method (photopolymerization), dry etching, wet etching, and the like. However, among these, the injection molding or the 2P method is preferable.
[0058]
By forming the microlens array plate 3 by injection molding or 2P method, the accuracy of the lens can be increased, the manufacturing can be easily performed, the mass productivity is excellent, and the cost is reduced. Can do.
In particular, in the case of injection molding, the cost can be reduced as compared with the 2P method.
[0059]
In the case of the 2P method, in particular, when a pattern is formed on the glass substrate by the 2P method (in the case of the glass 2P method), the use temperature is wider than that of the injection molding, which is preferable.
[0060]
The liquid crystal panel 4 includes a transparent substrate 41, a plurality of strip-shaped transparent electrodes 42 formed on the lower surface of the substrate 41 in FIG. 1 and arranged in parallel along the horizontal direction in FIG. 1 along a direction perpendicular to the sheet of FIG. 1 and the transparent substrate 46 disposed so as to be separated by a predetermined distance on the lower side in FIG. 1, the reflective film 44 formed on the upper surface of the substrate 46 in FIG. It has a plurality of strip-shaped transparent electrodes 40 arranged side by side, and a liquid crystal layer 43 provided between a substrate 41 (transparent electrode 42) and a substrate 46 (transparent electrode 40) and containing liquid crystal.
[0061]
The transparent electrode 40 is formed above the reflective film 44 in FIG. The transparent electrode 40 and the transparent electrode 42 are substantially orthogonal to each other, and each of these intersecting portions (including a portion in the vicinity of the intersecting portion) corresponds to one pixel.
[0062]
The liquid crystal of the liquid crystal layer 43 is driven by charging / discharging between the transparent electrode 40 and the transparent electrode 42.
[0063]
The transparent electrodes 40 and 42 are each made of, for example, indium tin oxide (ITO) or the like.
[0064]
The reflective film 44 has a plurality of openings 45 formed in a matrix. The opening 45 is located at the intersection of the transparent electrode 42 and the transparent electrode 40 and corresponds to one pixel.
[0065]
The opening 45 constitutes a light transmission window portion (a portion through which light can be transmitted) of the liquid crystal panel 4.
[0066]
The reflective film 44 is made of, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy.
Moreover, the board | substrates 41 and 46 are comprised, for example with various glass.
[0067]
A polarizing plate 47 is bonded to the upper side of the substrate 41 in FIG. 1, and a polarizing plate 48 is bonded to the lower side of the substrate 46 in FIG.
[0068]
Note that a switching element can be provided on one substrate corresponding to one pixel. The switching element is connected to a control circuit (not shown) and controls a current supplied to the transparent electrode 40 or 42. Thereby, charging / discharging of the transparent electrode 40 or 42 is controlled.
[0069]
The liquid crystal layer 43 contains liquid crystal molecules (not shown), and the alignment of the liquid crystal molecules, that is, the liquid crystal changes in response to the charge / discharge of the transparent electrode 40 or 42.
[0070]
Thereby, in each pixel, switching between transmission and blocking of light and adjustment of luminance can be arbitrarily performed.
[0071]
As the switching element, for example, a thin film diode (TFD), a thin film transistor (TFT), or the like can be used. When a thin film transistor is used as the switching element, the transparent electrode on the substrate on which the thin film transistor is provided is provided, for example, in a dot shape corresponding to one pixel, and the transparent electrode on the opposite substrate is provided on the entire surface of the substrate.
[0072]
In this display device 1, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the pitch of the openings (point light projecting portions) 25 of the light source means 2 is Ps, and the pitch of the openings (translucent window portions) 45 of the liquid crystal panel 4 is set. Pa, the pitch of the microlenses 32 of the microlens array 31 is PL, the optical distance between the openings 25 of the light source means 2 and the microlens array 31 is Ls, and between the microlens array 31 and the openings 45 of the liquid crystal panel 4 When the optical distance is La, the aperture 25 of the light source means 2, the microlens 32 of the microlens array 31, and the aperture 45 of the liquid crystal panel 4 are set so as to satisfy the conditions represented by the following formulas 1 and 2. Deploy.
[0073]
PL = {Ps · Pa / (Ps + Pa)} · n (where n is a natural number) Formula 1
La / Ls = Pa / Ps Formula 2
In particular, in Formula 1, n is preferably a natural number excluding 2.
[0074]
Here, the optical distance is a value obtained by grading the distance when the environment is assumed to be a vacuum, that is, the actual distance by the refractive index of the substance constituting the optical path.
[0075]
It is assumed that the conditions expressed by the above formulas 1 and 2 are satisfied in each of the horizontal direction in FIG. 1 and the direction perpendicular to the paper surface of FIG.
[0076]
Further, when the focal length of the microlens 32 is set to f, the microlens 32 is configured to satisfy the condition represented by the following formula 3. Expression 3 is a conditional expression for forming an image corresponding to the shape of the opening 25 of the light source means 2 (image of the opening 25) at the position of the opening 45 of the liquid crystal panel 4 by the microlens 32.
1 / Ls + 1 / La = 1 / f Equation 3
[0077]
The pitch Ps of the openings 25 of the light source means 2, the pitch Pa of the openings 45 of the liquid crystal panel 4, the pitch PL of the microlenses 32, the optical distance Ls between the openings 25 of the light source means 2 and the microlens array 31, and the microlenses. The optical distance La between the array 31 and the opening 45 of the liquid crystal panel 4 and the focal length f of the microlens 32 satisfy the conditions shown in the above-described Expression 1, Expression 2, and Expression 3 depending on, for example, the application. Is set as appropriate.
[0078]
For example, in the case of a transflective display device of a portable electronic device, it is preferable to set as follows, for example.
[0079]
The pitch Ps of the openings (point light source projecting portions) 25 of the light source means 2 is preferably about 20 to 500 μm.
[0080]
Moreover, it is preferable that the pitch Pa of the opening (translucent window part) 45 of the liquid crystal panel 4 is about 20 to 500 μm.
[0081]
The pitch PL of the microlenses 32 is preferably about 10 to 250 μm.
[0082]
The optical distance Ls between the opening 25 of the light source means 2 and the microlens array 31 is preferably about 0.1 to 2 mm.
[0083]
The optical distance La between the microlens array 31 and the opening 45 of the liquid crystal panel 4 is preferably about 0.1 to 2 mm.
[0084]
Further, the focal length f of the microlens 32 is preferably about 0.1 to 1 mm.
[0085]
Note that the shape (planar shape), dimensions, and the like in plan view of the microlens 32 are not particularly limited, and are appropriately set according to, for example, the pixel shape on the liquid crystal panel 4 side.
[0086]
The shape of the microlens 32 in plan view is preferably a similar shape to the pixel shape of the liquid crystal panel 4, and examples thereof include a rectangular shape such as a rectangle and a square, and a circular shape.
[0087]
The optical distances Ls and La can be adjusted, for example, by setting the thicknesses of the microlens array plate 3 and the substrate 46 to desired values.
[0088]
FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 respectively show the aperture 25 of the light source means 2 and the microlens 32 of the microlens array 31 when the conditions of the above-mentioned formula 1, formula 2 and formula 3 are satisfied and n = 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing an arrangement (positional relationship) with an opening 45 of the liquid crystal panel 4. In FIGS. 5 and 6, only the main optical axis of light passing through the center of the microlens 32 is shown in order to avoid complication of the drawings.
[0089]
Here, the microlens 32 has an optical characteristic that forms an image of light of any component (light of any optical axis) emitted from the opening 25 of the light source means 2 on the opening 45 of the liquid crystal panel 4.
[0090]
FIG. 5 shows a case where the optical distance Ls and the optical distance La are set equal, that is, the pitch Ps of the openings 25 and the pitch Pa of the openings 45 are set equal.
[0091]
As shown in the figure, almost all of the light emitted from the predetermined opening 25 of the light source means 2 is condensed on one of the openings 45 by the action of one of the microlenses 32.
[0092]
For example, among the light emitted from the leftmost opening 25 in FIG. 5, the light 61 incident on the leftmost microlens 32 in FIG. 5 is condensed by the microlens 32 onto the leftmost opening 45 in FIG. Then, the light 62 incident on the second microlens 32 from the left in FIG. 5 is condensed by the microlens 32 to the second opening 45 from the left in FIG. 5. The light is condensed on the corresponding opening 45 by the corresponding microlens 32.
[0093]
Similarly, among the light emitted from the second opening 25 from the left in FIG. 5, the light 63 incident on the second microlens 32 from the left in FIG. The light 64 that is condensed at the opening 45 and incident on the third microlens 32 from the left in FIG. 5 is condensed by the microlens 32 at the second opening 45 from the left in FIG. 5. Each light is condensed on the corresponding opening 45 by the corresponding microlens 32.
[0094]
Hereinafter, similarly, the light emitted from the third to sixth openings 25 from the left in FIG. 5 is also condensed to the corresponding opening 45 by the corresponding microlens 32.
[0095]
That is, when focusing on the predetermined opening 45, the light emitted from the plurality of openings 25 is condensed on the opening 45 by the microlens array 31.
[0096]
When attention is paid to the predetermined microlens 32, the microlens 32 collects the light emitted from the plurality of openings 25 to the plurality of openings 45.
[0097]
Thus, in this display device 1, the light emitted from the light source means 2 (each opening 25) can be efficiently condensed on the opening 45, thereby improving the use efficiency of the light emitted from the light source means 2. Can be made.
[0098]
Further, since light from a plurality of (many) openings 25 is collected in one opening 45, there is an advantage that the brightness is averaged. That is, even if there is a variation in the amount of light from each opening 25, the position of each opening 25, and the like, the light collected in the opening 45 becomes the average value of the light from the plurality of openings 25. The difference is almost gone. Thereby, highly uniform display can be performed.
[0099]
Moreover, in this display apparatus 1, what is necessary is just to provide an adjustment process once in position adjustment in the case of manufacture (assembly | attachment).
[0100]
In particular, since the exit angles θ1 and θ2 to the adjacent points are relatively small, the effect of the averaging is large, and it is not necessary to strictly adjust the positional relationship between the light source means 2 (each opening 25) and the microlens array 31. . That is, at the time of position adjustment, the opening 45 is positioned at a focal position determined by the light source means 2 (each opening 25) and the microlens array 31 having an appropriate positional relationship. One adjustment step is sufficient.
[0101]
Thereby, position adjustment can be performed easily, quickly and surely, and the productivity is good, which is advantageous for mass production.
[0102]
Also, by setting Ls and La equal, the focal length f of the microlens 32 can be set to be the longest (the numerical aperture NA is the smallest). As a result, the microlens array 31 can be easily manufactured, and accuracy can be improved and aberrations can be reduced.
[0103]
Also, by setting n = 1, the pitch PL of the microlenses 32 can be set smaller than in the case of n> 1, and thus the numerical aperture NA of the lens can be set smaller, which is preferable.
[0104]
FIG. 6 shows a case where the optical distance Ls is set larger than the optical distance La, that is, a case where the pitch Ps of the openings 25 is set larger than the pitch Pa of the openings 45.
[0105]
In this case, as in the case where the optical distance Ls and the optical distance La are set equal, almost all of the light emitted from the predetermined opening 25 of the light source means 2 is caused by the action of any one of the microlenses 32. , The light is condensed on any one of the openings 45.
[0106]
Thus, when the optical distance Ls is set to be larger than the optical distance La, the pitch Ps of the openings (point light source projecting portions) 25 of the light source means 2 can be set to be relatively large (opening). Since the number of 25 can be relatively small), the manufacture is facilitated.
[0107]
Further, in the display device 1, in a plan view (when viewed from the upper side in FIG. 1), the shape of the opening (light projecting portion of the point light source) 25 of the light source means 2 and the opening (translucent window portion) of the liquid crystal panel 4. ) The shape of 45 is preferably a similar shape.
[0108]
The ratio (S25 / S45) of the area (size) S25 of the opening 25 to the area (size) S45 of the opening 45 is the ratio of the pitch Ps of the opening 25 to the pitch Pa of the opening 45 (Ps / Pa). That is, it is preferably set equal to the ratio (Ls / La) between the optical distance Ls and the optical distance La.
[0109]
Thereby, the light emitted from the light source means 2 (each opening 25) can be more efficiently condensed on the opening 45, and the use efficiency of the light emitted from the light source means 2 can be further improved.
[0110]
For example, in the case of a transflective display device, the area S25 of the opening 25 is preferably about 3 to 50% of the area of one pixel.
[0111]
Next, the operation of the display device 1 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 1, light emitted from the light source unit 21 of the display device 1 is emitted from each opening 25, passes through the adhesive layer 5 and the substrate 30, and then enters each microlens 32 of the microlens array 31. Incident light is emitted from the microlens 32 so as to be condensed at the opening 45 by the action of the microlens 32 as described above.
[0112]
The light emitted from the microlens 32 is polarized by the polarizing plate 48, passes through the substrate 46, condenses on the opening 45, and passes (passes) through the opening 45.
In the present invention, the display device 1 may be provided with a retardation plate (not shown).
[0113]
The light transmitted through the opening 45 is intensity-modulated by the liquid crystal of the liquid crystal layer 43 whose orientation is controlled by the voltage applied between the transparent electrode 42 and the transparent electrode 40. Then, the light passes through the substrate 41, is polarized by the polarizing plate 47, and exits to the outside.
[0114]
In this way, a predetermined image (electronic image) is displayed on the screen of the display device 1.
[0115]
Further, since the liquid crystal panel 4 of the display device 1 is a semi-transmissive / semi-reflective type, when the outside is relatively bright, it is possible to perform display by reflecting light from the outside with the reflection film 44.
[0116]
When the outside is relatively dark, display can be performed by driving the light source means 2 and transmitting the light from the light source means 2 through the opening 45 of the reflection film 44 as described above.
[0117]
As described above, according to the display device 1, the light emitted from the light source means 2 (each opening 25) can be efficiently condensed on the opening 45, whereby the light emitted from the light source means 2 can be collected. Usage efficiency can be improved.
[0118]
That is, even if the area of the reflection film 44 is increased and the area of the opening 45 provided in the reflection film 44 is reduced, the light from the light source means 2 can be efficiently condensed on the opening 45. The amount of light transmitted through 45 can be increased, whereby a transflective liquid crystal display device (direct-view liquid crystal display device) having a high external light reflectance and a high light transmittance from the light source means 2 can be obtained. ) Can be realized.
[0119]
Moreover, in this display device 1, since it is not necessary to use an expensive prism sheet, the number of parts can be reduced, and the cost can be reduced.
[0120]
In the present invention, the point light source is not limited to the configuration described above, and may be, for example, a light emitting diode (LED), a laser diode, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) element, an inorganic EL element, or the like.
[0121]
When a laser diode is used as the point light source and a liquid crystal panel is used as the light modulation element, the polarizing plate can be omitted. Thereby, the use efficiency of the light from a point light source can further be improved, and the number of parts can be reduced.
[0122]
Next, a second embodiment of the electro-optical device according to the invention will be described.
FIG. 7 is a longitudinal sectional view schematically showing the configuration of the second embodiment of the electro-optical device of the invention. In addition, in order to avoid that a figure becomes complicated, the oblique line which shows that it is a cross section is abbreviate | omitted in FIG. Further, in FIG. 7, only the main optical axis of light passing through the center of the microlens 32 is shown in order to avoid the drawing from becoming complicated.
[0123]
Hereinafter, the display device (electro-optical device) 1 according to the second embodiment will be described with a focus on differences from the first embodiment described above, and description of similar matters will be omitted.
[0124]
The display device 1 shown in the figure is a transmissive display device, in which the transflective liquid crystal panel 4 of the display device 1 of the first embodiment described above is replaced with a transmissive liquid crystal panel 4a. There are other configurations similar to those of the first embodiment.
[0125]
The liquid crystal panel 4a has a black matrix 49 provided with a plurality of openings (translucent window portions) 491 arranged in a matrix instead of the reflective film 44 of the liquid crystal panel 4 in the first embodiment described above. Yes.
[0126]
The transparent electrodes 40 are juxtaposed along the horizontal direction in FIG. 7, and the transparent electrodes 42 are juxtaposed along the direction perpendicular to the paper surface of FIG.
[0127]
Further, the black matrix 49 is provided so as to shield light between pixels, that is, between the adjacent transparent electrodes 40 and between the adjacent transparent electrodes 42.
[0128]
According to the display device 1 of the second embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment described above can be obtained.
[0129]
That is, in this display device 1, it is possible to realize a transmissive liquid crystal display device (direct view liquid crystal display device) in which the light use efficiency of the light source means 2 is extremely high.
[0130]
Next, a third embodiment of the electro-optical device according to the invention will be described.
FIG. 8 is a longitudinal sectional view schematically showing the configuration of the third embodiment of the electro-optical device of the invention. In addition, in order to avoid that a figure becomes complicated, the oblique line which shows that it is a cross section is abbreviate | omitted in FIG. Further, in FIG. 8, only the main optical axis of light passing through the center of the microlens 32 is shown in order to avoid making the drawing complicated.
[0131]
Hereinafter, the display device (electro-optical device) 1 according to the third embodiment will be described with a focus on differences from the first embodiment described above, and description of similar matters will be omitted.
[0132]
The display device 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a transflective display device having a transflective liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) 4, for example, a transmissive type as in the second embodiment described above. A transmissive display device including the liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) 4a may be used.
[0133]
As in the first and second embodiments described above, the microlens array 31 (microlens array) is also used when the light emitted from the aperture (light projecting portion of the point light source) 25 is collected by the microlens array 31. The light quantity distribution of the light from the opening 25 in the plane (surface) 71 passing through each opening 45 shown in FIG. 8 in a state where the plate 3) is not provided is reflected.
[0134]
The pitch Ps of the openings (point light source projecting portions) 25 of the display device 1 of the third embodiment is a plane (surface) that penetrates each opening 45 in a state where the microlens array 31 (microlens array plate 3) is not provided. ) 71 is set so that the amount of light from the plurality of openings 25 is substantially uniform.
[0135]
Thereby, the light quantity difference between the openings 45 (pixels) can be reduced or eliminated, and display unevenness can be reduced or eliminated. That is, a uniform display can be performed.
[0136]
Specifically, the pitch Ps of the openings 25 is preferably set as follows.
[0137]
In the state where the microlens array 31 (microlens array plate 3) is not provided, when the standard deviation of the light quantity distribution of the light from the opening 25 on the plane 71 is σ, the pitch Ps of the openings 25 is 2.3σ or less. Is preferably 1.8σ or less, and more preferably about 0.3σ to 1.5σ. The standard deviation σ of the light quantity distribution has a length dimension.
[0138]
In other words, when the microlens array 31 (microlens array plate 3) is not provided, the maximum value of the light amount from the plurality of openings 25 in the plane 71 is a, and the minimum value is b (see FIG. 9). ) The pitch Ps of the openings 25 is set so that the ratio of the maximum value a and the minimum value b of the light amount (hereinafter referred to as “light amount ratio”) b / a is 0.9 or more. It is preferably set to be 0.99 or more, more preferably set to 0.995 or more. The maximum value a and the minimum value b are values in a portion excluding an end portion (outer portion).
[0139]
Thereby, the light quantity difference between the openings 45 (pixels) can be further reduced or eliminated, and display with higher uniformity can be performed.
[0140]
The inventor performed a predetermined simulation for the display device 1. Hereinafter, the simulation will be described.
[0141]
The light quantity distribution in a plane perpendicular to the main optical axis of the light emitted from one opening 25 of the light source means 2 of the display device 1, that is, the light emitted from one point light source, is a Gaussian distribution (normal distribution) or The distribution approximates that.
[0142]
Therefore, this simulation was performed using a Gaussian distribution having a standard deviation σ of “1” as a light amount distribution of light emitted from one point light source in a plane perpendicular to the main optical axis.
[0143]
First, assuming that a plurality of similar point light sources are arranged in a line at an equal pitch (pitch Ps), a plurality of Gaussian distributions (light quantity distributions) having the standard deviation σ of “1” are arranged at an equal pitch (pitch Ps). Were arranged in a row and the light intensity distributions were superimposed.
[0144]
FIG. 9 shows the light amount distribution of the light from each point light source and the light amount distribution when the light from each point light source is superimposed when the pitch Ps of the point light sources is 2.5 (2.5σ). The graph shown in FIG. 10 shows the light amount distribution when the point light source pitch Ps is 1.7 (1.7σ) and the light amount distribution from each point light source overlapped with the light from each point light source. It is a graph which shows distribution.
[0145]
Note that the vertical axis of each graph indicates the amount of light, and the horizontal axis indicates the position (distance from a predetermined reference point). In each graph, the position where the amount of light from each point light source is maximized (maximum) corresponds to the position of the point light source.
[0146]
Next, the light source ratio b / a at each pitch Ps was determined by changing the pitch Ps of the point light sources.
[0147]
The result is shown in FIG. That is, FIG. 11 is a graph showing the relationship between the point light source pitch Ps and the light quantity ratio b / a. In this graph, the vertical axis represents the light amount ratio b / a, and the horizontal axis represents the pitch Ps of the point light sources.
[0148]
The light quantity ratio b / a is 0.99 or more when the point light source pitch Ps is 1.8 σ or less.
[0149]
As shown in FIGS. 9 and 11, when the pitch Ps of the point light sources is set to 2.5σ, the amount of light when the light from each point light source is overlapped is slightly uneven. That is, the light amount ratio b / a is about 0.84.
[0150]
On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, when the pitch Ps of the point light sources is 1.7σ, the light quantity when the light from each point light source is superimposed is uniform. That is, the light quantity ratio b / a is about 1. In this case, extremely uniform display can be performed.
[0151]
As described above, according to the display device 1 of the third embodiment, since the pitch Ps of the openings 25 is set as described above, variations in brightness between the openings 45 (between pixels) are reduced or eliminated. Accordingly, display unevenness can be reduced or eliminated. That is, a uniform display can be performed.
[0152]
Further, according to the display device 1, the same effects as those of the first embodiment described above can be obtained.
[0153]
Next, a fourth embodiment of the electro-optical device of the invention will be described.
In the fourth embodiment, a plane (surface) 71 through which light from an opening (light projecting portion of a point light source) 25 of the light source means 2 passes through each opening (translucent window portion) 45 of the liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) 4. An image is formed above (see FIG. 8), and the area of the portion where the image of the opening 25 on the plane 71 (light irradiation region on the plane 71) and the opening 45 overlap is the area of the image of the opening 25 and the opening 45. It is configured not to change as much as possible even when it is relatively displaced in a predetermined direction in the plane 71 (a first direction in the plane 71 and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction). This will be specifically described below.
[0154]
FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 are the fourth embodiment of the electro-optical device according to the present invention, respectively, and an opening (translucent window portion) of the liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) and a plane penetrating each opening of the liquid crystal panel. It is a top view which shows typically the image of the opening (light projection part of a point light source) of the light source means in (surface).
[0155]
In FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, the image portion of the opening of the light source means (the light projecting portion of the point light source) is indicated by hatching. 12 and 13, the horizontal direction is described as a first direction in the plane 71, and the vertical direction is described as a second direction in the plane 71 (a direction perpendicular to the first direction).
[0156]
Hereinafter, the display device (electro-optical device) 1 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with a focus on differences from the first embodiment described above, and descriptions of similar matters will be omitted.
[0157]
The display device 1 according to the fourth embodiment is, for example, a transflective display device including the transflective liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) 4 as in the first embodiment described above. Alternatively, for example, a transmissive display device including the transmissive liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) 4a as in the second embodiment described above may be used.
[0158]
As shown in FIG. 12, in the display device 1 of the fourth embodiment, light from the opening (light projecting portion of the point light source) 25 of the light source means 2 is transmitted to each opening (light transmission) of the liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) 4. An image is formed on a plane (surface) 71 that passes through the window portion 45 (see FIG. 8), and an image (irradiation region) 26 of the opening 25 on the plane 71 is configured to be included in the opening 45. That is, various conditions such as the shape, size, and arrangement of the openings 25 and 45 are set so that the image 26 of the opening 25 is included in the opening 45.
[0159]
In the present embodiment, the shape of the opening 45 is a rectangle, its short sides 451 and 453 are substantially parallel to the first direction, and the long sides 452 and 454 are perpendicular to the first direction. It is substantially parallel to the direction of 2.
[0160]
In the present embodiment, the shape of the opening 25, that is, the shape of the image 26 of the opening 25 is a rectangle, the short sides 261 and 263 are substantially parallel to the first direction, and the long sides 262 and 264 are the same. Is substantially parallel to the second direction.
[0161]
Therefore, the short side (one side) 451 of the opening 45 and the short side (one side) 261 of the image 26 of the opening 25 are substantially parallel.
[0162]
FIG. 12 shows a state in which the center of the image 26 of the opening 25 coincides with the center of the opening 45 (a state in which the image 26 is positioned at an ideal position with respect to the opening 45), and FIG. The center of the image 26 of the opening 25 and the center of the opening 45 are shifted.
[0163]
In this display device 1, as shown in FIG. 13, even if the light condensing position of the light from the opening 25 is shifted and the center of the image 26 of the opening 25 is shifted from the center of the opening 45, the image 26 is opened. Protruding from 45 is prevented (prevented) or suppressed.
[0164]
Thereby, variation in brightness between the openings 45 (pixels) can be reduced or eliminated, and uniform display can be performed.
[0165]
Also, as shown in FIG. 12, the length in the first direction (length of the short side 261) L3 of the image 26 of the opening 25 on the plane 71 and the length in the first direction of the opening 45 (of the short side 451). Length) in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction of the image 26 of the opening 25 on the plane 71 (length of the long side 262) L4 and the second of the opening 45 The difference from the length in the direction (the length of the long side 452) L2 is substantially equal.
[0166]
Thus, by making the difference between the lengths L3 and L1 and the difference between the lengths L4 and L2 substantially the same, the center of the image 26 of the opening 25 and the center of the opening 45 coincide with each other in FIG. From the state shown, when the image 26 and the opening 45 are displaced in the first direction, the amount of displacement in the first direction until the image 26 protrudes from the opening 45 in the first direction, and the image 26 and the opening 45. Are displaced in the second direction, the amount of displacement in the second direction until the image 26 protrudes from the opening 45 in the second direction becomes substantially equal. For this reason, it becomes difficult for the image 26 to protrude from the openings 45, and the variation in brightness between the openings 45 (between pixels) can be further reduced or eliminated, whereby a more uniform display can be performed.
[0167]
As described above, according to the display device 1 of the fourth embodiment, the image 26 of the opening 25 is included in the opening 45 on the plane 71, and the image 26 of the opening 25 and the opening 45 overlap each other. Since the area of the portion does not change even when the image 26 of the opening 25 and the opening 45 are shifted in the first direction or the second direction, for example, errors in the manufacturing process, positional deviation, thermal expansion, change with time, etc. Even if a slight deviation occurs in the light collection position of the light from the opening 25, the brightness variation between the openings 45 (pixels) can be reduced or eliminated, thereby reducing display unevenness, or It can be lost. That is, a uniform display can be performed.
[0168]
Further, since the image 26 of the opening 25 is included in the opening 45, the use efficiency of light emitted from the light source means 2 is extremely high, which is advantageous when priority is given to the use efficiency of light.
[0169]
Further, according to the display device 1, the same effects as those of the first embodiment described above can be obtained.
[0170]
Here, also in the display device 1 of the fourth embodiment, the pitch Ps of the openings (point light source light projecting portions) 25 is set to the microlens array 31 (microlens array plate 3), as in the third embodiment. ) Is preferably set so that the amount of light from the plurality of openings 25 in the plane 71 that penetrates each opening 45 is substantially uniform. In addition, since the structure and effect in this case are the same as that of 3rd Embodiment mentioned above, the description is abbreviate | omitted.
[0171]
In the present invention, the shape of the opening 45 and the shape of the opening 25 (the shape of the image 26 of the opening 25) are not limited to a rectangle, but may be other shapes such as a square, a circle, an ellipse, and the like.
[0172]
In the present invention, the shape of the opening 45 and the shape of the opening 25 (the shape of the image 26 of the opening 25) may be similar (same), or may be different.
[0173]
Next, a fifth embodiment of the electro-optical device of the invention will be described.
In the fifth embodiment, a plane (surface) 71 through which light from the opening (light projecting portion of the point light source) 25 of the light source means 2 passes through each opening (translucent window portion) 45 of the liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) 4. An image is formed above (see FIG. 8), and the area of the portion where the image of the opening 25 on the plane 71 (light irradiation region on the plane 71) and the opening 45 overlap is the area of the image of the opening 25 and the opening 45. It is configured not to change as much as possible even when it is relatively displaced in a predetermined direction in the plane 71 (a first direction in the plane 71 and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction). This will be specifically described below.
[0174]
FIGS. 14 and 15 show a fifth embodiment of the electro-optical device of the present invention, respectively, and an opening (translucent window portion) of the liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) and a plane penetrating each opening of the liquid crystal panel. It is a top view which shows typically the image of the opening (light projection part of a point light source) of the light source means in (surface).
[0175]
14 and 15, the image portion of the opening of the light source means (the light projecting portion of the point light source) is indicated by hatching. 14 and 15, the horizontal direction is described as a first direction in the plane 71, and the vertical direction is described as a second direction in the plane 71 (a direction perpendicular to the first direction).
[0176]
Hereinafter, the display device (electro-optical device) 1 according to the fifth embodiment will be described with a focus on differences from the first embodiment described above, and description of similar matters will be omitted.
[0177]
The display device 1 of the fifth embodiment is, for example, a transflective display device having a transflective liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) 4 as in the first embodiment. Alternatively, for example, a transmissive display device including the transmissive liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) 4a as in the second embodiment described above may be used.
[0178]
As shown in FIG. 14, in the display device 1 of the fifth embodiment, light from an opening (light projecting portion of a point light source) 25 of the light source means 2 is transmitted to each opening (light transmission) of the liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) 4. An image is formed on a plane (surface) 71 that passes through the window portion 45 (see FIG. 8), and the opening 45 is included in the image (irradiation region) 26 of the opening 25 on the plane 71. That is, various conditions such as the shape, size, and arrangement of the openings 25 and 45 are set so that the opening 45 is included in the image 26 of the opening 25.
[0179]
In the present embodiment, the shape of the opening 45 is a rectangle, its short sides 451 and 453 are substantially parallel to the first direction, and the long sides 452 and 454 are perpendicular to the first direction. It is substantially parallel to the direction of 2.
[0180]
In the present embodiment, the shape of the opening 25, that is, the shape of the image 26 of the opening 25 is a rectangle, the short sides 261 and 263 are substantially parallel to the first direction, and the long sides 262 and 264 are the same. Is substantially parallel to the second direction.
[0181]
Therefore, the short side (one side) 451 of the opening 45 and the short side (one side) 261 of the image 26 of the opening 25 are substantially parallel.
[0182]
FIG. 14 shows a state in which the center of the image 26 of the opening 25 coincides with the center of the opening 45 (a state in which the image 26 is positioned at an ideal position with respect to the opening 45), and FIG. The center of the image 26 of the opening 25 and the center of the opening 45 are shifted.
[0183]
In this display device 1, as shown in FIG. 15, even if the light collection position of the light from the opening 25 is deviated and the center of the image 26 of the opening 25 and the center of the opening 45 are deviated, the opening 45 is imaged. Protruding from 26 is prevented (prevented) or suppressed.
[0184]
Thereby, variation in brightness between the openings 45 (pixels) can be reduced or eliminated, and uniform display can be performed.
[0185]
Further, as shown in FIG. 14, the length (length of the short side 261) L3 of the image 26 of the opening 25 on the plane 71 and the length (length of the short side 451) of the opening 45 in the first direction. Length) in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction of the image 26 of the opening 25 on the plane 71 (length of the long side 262) L4 and the second of the opening 45 The difference from the length in the direction (the length of the long side 452) L2 is substantially equal.
[0186]
Thus, by making the difference between the lengths L3 and L1 and the difference between the lengths L4 and L2 substantially equal, the center of the image 26 of the opening 25 and the center of the opening 45 coincide with each other in FIG. From the state shown, when the image 26 and the opening 45 are displaced in the first direction, the amount of displacement in the first direction until the opening 45 protrudes from the image 26 in the first direction, and the image 26 and the opening 45. Are displaced in the second direction, the amount of displacement in the second direction until the opening 45 protrudes from the image 26 in the second direction becomes substantially equal. For this reason, the opening 45 does not easily protrude from the image 26, and variations in brightness between the openings 45 (between pixels) can be further reduced or eliminated, whereby a more uniform display can be performed.
[0187]
As described above, according to the display device 1 of the fourth embodiment, the opening 45 is included in the image 26 of the opening 25 on the plane 71, and the image 26 of the opening 25 and the opening 45 overlap each other. Since the area of the portion does not change even when the image 26 of the opening 25 and the opening 45 are shifted in the first direction or the second direction, for example, errors in the manufacturing process, positional deviation, thermal expansion, change with time, etc. Even if a slight deviation occurs in the light collection position of the light from the opening 25, the brightness variation between the openings 45 (pixels) can be reduced or eliminated, thereby reducing display unevenness, or It can be lost. That is, a uniform display can be performed.
[0188]
Further, since the opening 45 is included in the image 26 of the opening 25, the amount of light condensed on the opening 45 can be increased, which is advantageous when priority is given to luminance.
[0189]
Further, according to the display device 1, the same effects as those of the first embodiment described above can be obtained.
[0190]
Here, also in the display device 1 of the fifth embodiment, the pitch Ps of the openings (point light source light projecting portions) 25 is set to the microlens array 31 (microlens array plate 3), as in the third embodiment. ) Is preferably set so that the amount of light from the plurality of openings 25 in the plane 71 that penetrates each opening 45 is substantially uniform. In addition, since the structure and effect in this case are the same as that of 3rd Embodiment mentioned above, the description is abbreviate | omitted.
[0191]
In the present invention, the shape of the opening 45 and the shape of the opening 25 (the shape of the image 26 of the opening 25) are not limited to a rectangle, but may be other shapes such as a square, a circle, an ellipse, and the like.
[0192]
In the present invention, the shape of the opening 45 and the shape of the opening 25 (the shape of the image 26 of the opening 25) may be similar (same), or may be different.
[0193]
Next, a sixth embodiment of the electro-optical device according to the invention will be described.
In the sixth embodiment, a plane (surface) 71 through which light from the opening (light projecting portion of the point light source) 25 of the light source means 2 passes through each opening (translucent window portion) 45 of the liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) 4. An image is formed above (see FIG. 8), and the area of the portion where the image of the opening 25 on the plane 71 (light irradiation region on the plane 71) and the opening 45 overlap is the area of the image of the opening 25 and the opening 45. It is configured not to change as much as possible even when it is relatively displaced in a predetermined direction in the plane 71 (a first direction in the plane 71 and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction). This will be specifically described below.
[0194]
FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 show a sixth embodiment of the electro-optical device of the present invention, respectively, and an opening (translucent window portion) of the liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) and a plane passing through each opening of the liquid crystal panel. It is a top view which shows typically the image of the opening (light projection part of a point light source) of the light source means in (surface).
[0195]
In FIG. 16 and FIG. 17, the image portion of the opening of the light source means (the light projecting portion of the point light source) is indicated by hatching. In FIGS. 16 and 17, the horizontal direction is described as a first direction in the plane 71, and the vertical direction is described as a second direction in the plane 71 (a direction perpendicular to the first direction).
[0196]
Hereinafter, the display device (electro-optical device) 1 according to the sixth embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the first embodiment described above, and description of similar matters will be omitted.
[0197]
The display device 1 of the sixth embodiment is, for example, a transflective display device having a transflective liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) 4 as in the first embodiment. Alternatively, for example, a transmissive display device including the transmissive liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) 4a as in the second embodiment described above may be used.
[0198]
As shown in FIG. 16, in the display device 1 of the sixth embodiment, light from an opening (light projecting part of a point light source) 25 of the light source means 2 is transmitted through each opening (light transmission) of the liquid crystal panel (light modulation element) 4. An image is formed on a plane (surface) 71 that passes through the window portion 45 (see FIG. 8). In the first direction, the opening 45 is included in the image (irradiation region) 26 of the opening 25, and the first direction. The image 26 of the aperture 25 is configured to be included in the aperture 45 in a second direction perpendicular to the aperture. That is, the shape of the openings 25 and 45 so that the opening 45 is included in the image 26 of the opening 25 in the first direction and the image 26 of the opening 25 is included in the opening 45 in the second direction. Various conditions such as dimensions and arrangement are set.
[0199]
In the present embodiment, the shape of the opening 45 is a rectangle, its short sides 451 and 453 are substantially parallel to the first direction, and the long sides 452 and 454 are perpendicular to the first direction. It is substantially parallel to the direction of 2. That is, the outline of the opening 45 has a pair of linear portions (long sides 452 and 454) substantially parallel to the second direction.
[0200]
In the present embodiment, the shape of the opening 25, that is, the shape of the image 26 of the opening 25 is a rectangle, the short sides 261 and 263 are substantially parallel to the second direction, and the long sides 262 and 264 are the same. Is substantially parallel to the first direction. That is, the contour of the image 26 of the opening 25 has a pair of linear portions (long sides 262 and 264) substantially parallel to the first direction.
[0201]
Therefore, the short side (one side) 451 of the opening 45 and the long side (one side) 262 of the image 26 of the opening 25 are substantially parallel.
[0202]
The length (length of the long side 262) L5 of the image 26 of the opening 25 is longer than the length (length of the short side 451) L1 of the opening 45 in the first direction, and The length in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction of the image 26 of the opening 25 (the length of the short side 261) L6 is the length of the opening 45 in the second direction (the length of the long side 452). ) Shorter than L2.
[0203]
FIG. 16 shows a state in which the center of the image 26 of the opening 25 and the center of the opening 45 coincide with each other (a state in which the image 26 is positioned at an ideal position with respect to the opening 45). The center of the image 26 of the opening 25 and the center of the opening 45 are shifted.
[0204]
In the display device 1, as shown in FIG. 17, even if the light collecting position from the opening 25 is deviated and the center of the image 26 of the opening 25 and the center of the opening 45 are deviated, the first direction , The opening 45 is prevented (prevented) or suppressed from protruding from the image 26, and the image 26 is blocked (prevented) or suppressed from protruding from the opening 45 in the second direction.
[0205]
Moreover, since the contour of the image 26 of the opening 25 has a pair of linear portions (long sides 262 and 264) substantially parallel to the first direction, the image 26 and the opening 45 are in the first direction. The area of the portion where the image 26 and the opening 45 overlap does not change.
[0206]
Similarly, since the outline of the opening 45 has a pair of linear portions (long sides 452 and 454) substantially parallel to the second direction, the image 26 and the opening 45 are displaced in the second direction. The area where the image 26 and the opening 45 overlap does not change.
[0207]
Thereby, variation in brightness between the openings 45 (pixels) can be reduced or eliminated, and uniform display can be performed.
[0208]
As described above, according to the display device 1 of the sixth embodiment, the opening 45 is included in the image 26 of the opening 25 in the first direction, and the image 26 of the opening 25 in the second direction. Is included in the opening 45, and the area of the portion where the image 26 of the opening 25 and the opening 45 overlap is different even when the image 26 of the opening 25 and the opening 45 are shifted in the first direction or the second direction. Since there is no change, the brightness between the apertures 45 (between pixels) even if there is a slight shift in the light condensing position of the light from the apertures 25 due to, for example, errors in the manufacturing process, positional deviations, thermal expansion, changes with time, etc. The variation in thickness can be reduced or eliminated, whereby display unevenness can be reduced or eliminated. That is, a uniform display can be performed.
[0209]
Further, according to the display device 1, the same effects as those of the first embodiment described above can be obtained.
[0210]
Here, also in the display device 1 of the sixth embodiment, as in the third embodiment described above, the pitch Ps of the openings (point light source projecting portions) 25 is set to the microlens array 31 (microlens array plate 3). ) Is preferably set so that the amount of light from the plurality of openings 25 in the plane 71 that penetrates each opening 45 is substantially uniform. In addition, since the structure and effect in this case are the same as that of 3rd Embodiment mentioned above, the description is abbreviate | omitted.
[0211]
In the present invention, the shape of the opening 45 and the shape of the opening 25 (the shape of the image 26 of the opening 25) are not limited to a rectangle, but may be other shapes such as a square. However, a rectangle such as the rectangle or the square is preferable, and a rectangle or a square is particularly preferable.
[0212]
In the present invention, the shape of the opening 45 and the shape of the opening 25 (the shape of the image 26 of the opening 25) may be similar (same), or may be different.
[0213]
The electro-optical device according to the present invention has been described based on the illustrated embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and the configuration of each unit may be any configuration having the same function. Can be replaced.
[0214]
For example, in the present invention, any two or more configurations of the respective embodiments may be appropriately combined.
[0215]
In the above embodiment, a transmissive liquid crystal panel or a transflective liquid crystal panel is used as the light modulation element. However, in the present invention, the light modulation element is not limited to the liquid crystal panel.
[0216]
Further, the electro-optical device of the present invention may be an electro-optical device capable of displaying a plurality of colors, for example, a full-color electro-optical device or a monochrome electro-optical device.
[0217]
The present invention can be applied to various electronic devices. For example, monitors (displays) of personal computers such as laptop personal computers and notebook personal computers, television monitors, video phone monitors, mobile phones (including PHS), electronic notebooks, electronic dictionaries, electronic cameras (digital) It can be applied to a direct-view display device of various electronic devices such as a monitor of a portable electronic device such as a still camera or a video camera, a projection display device such as a projector, or the like.
[0218]
Hereinafter, the electronic apparatus of the present invention including the display device (electro-optical device) 1 as described above will be described in detail based on the embodiments shown in FIGS.
[0219]
FIG. 18 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration of a mobile (or notebook) personal computer to which the display device described above is applied. In this figure, a personal computer 1100 includes a main body 1104 having a keyboard 1102 and a display unit 1106. The display unit 1106 is supported by the main body 1104 via a hinge structure so as to be rotatable. Yes.
[0220]
In the personal computer 1100, the display unit 1106 includes the display device (electro-optical device) 1 described above.
[0221]
FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a mobile phone (including PHS) in which the above-described display device is applied to the display unit. In this figure, a cellular phone 1200 includes the above-described display device (electro-optical device) 1 together with a plurality of operation buttons 1202, an earpiece 1204, and a mouthpiece 1206.
[0222]
FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a digital still camera in which the above-described display device is applied to the finder. In this figure, connection with an external device is also simply shown.
[0223]
Here, an ordinary camera sensitizes a silver halide photographic film with a light image of a subject, whereas a digital still camera 1300 photoelectrically converts a light image of a subject with an imaging device such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device). An imaging signal (image signal) is generated.
[0224]
On the back of the case (body) 1302 in the digital still camera 1300, the display device (electro-optical device) 1 described above is provided, and the display device 1 is configured to perform display based on the imaging signal from the CCD. Functions as a finder for displaying images as electronic images.
[0225]
A circuit board 1308 is installed inside the case 1302. The circuit board 1308 is provided with a memory that can store (store) an imaging signal.
[0226]
Further, a light receiving unit 1304 including an optical lens (imaging optical system), a CCD, and the like is provided on the front side (the back side in FIG. 20) of the case 1302.
[0227]
When the photographer confirms the subject image displayed on the display device 1 and presses the shutter button 1306, the CCD image pickup signal at that time is transferred and stored in the memory of the circuit board 1308.
[0228]
In the digital still camera 1300, a video signal output terminal 1312 and an input / output terminal 1314 for data communication are provided on the side surface of the case 1302. As shown in FIG. 20, a television monitor 1430 is connected to the video signal output terminal 1312 and a personal computer 1440 is connected to the input / output terminal 1314 for data communication, if necessary. Further, the imaging signal stored in the memory of the circuit board 1308 is output to the television monitor 1430 or the personal computer 1440 by a predetermined operation.
[0229]
The electronic apparatus to which the electro-optical device of the present invention can be applied includes, for example, a television, a viewfinder type, a monitor in addition to the personal computer of FIG. 18, the mobile phone of FIG. 19, and the digital still camera of FIG. Direct-view video tape recorder, car navigation device, pager, electronic notebook (including communication function), calculator, electronic game device, word processor, workstation, videophone, TV monitor for crime prevention, electronic binoculars, POS terminal, touch panel Equipped equipment (for example, cash dispenser of financial institution), medical equipment (for example, electronic thermometer, blood pressure monitor, blood glucose meter, electrocardiogram display device, ultrasonic diagnostic device, endoscope display device), fish detector, various measuring devices , Instruments (eg, vehicle, aircraft, ship instruments), flight simulators, etc. Monitors, and the like projection display device of the projector, and the like. And it cannot be overemphasized that the display apparatus (electro-optical apparatus) mentioned above is applicable as a display part and a monitor part of these various electronic devices.
[0230]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, the light emitted from the light source can be efficiently collected on the light-transmitting window, thereby improving the use efficiency of the light emitted from the light source.
[0231]
In particular, a backlight-type display device (direct-view display device) with extremely high use efficiency of light from the light source can be realized.
[0232]
Further, when the light modulation element is composed of a transflective liquid crystal panel, the area of the reflection film (reflection plate) is increased and the area of the opening (transmission window) provided in the reflection film is reduced. Even so, the light from the light source can be efficiently condensed on the opening, so that the amount of light transmitted through the opening can be increased, thereby allowing the reflectance of external light and the light from the light source to be increased. A transflective liquid crystal display device having a high transmittance can be realized.
[0233]
Also, the pitch of the point light sources was set so that the amount of light from the plurality of point light sources on the surface that penetrates each light transmission window portion of the light modulation element was substantially uniform in the state where the microlens array was not provided. In this case, the difference in the amount of light between the pixels (translucent window portions) can be reduced or eliminated, whereby uniform display can be performed.
[0234]
Further, the light from the point light source forms an image on a surface that penetrates each light-transmitting window portion, and the area of the portion where the image of the point light source overlaps the light-transmitting window portion on the surface is the image of the point light source and the light transmitting light If it is configured so that it does not change as much as possible even when it is relatively displaced from the window, for example, due to errors in the manufacturing process, displacement, thermal expansion, changes over time, etc. Even if there is a slight shift in the condensing position, the difference in the amount of light between the pixels (translucent window portions) can be reduced or eliminated, whereby a uniform display can be performed.
Further, the present invention can be applied to various electronic devices and has a wide range of use.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view schematically showing a configuration of a first embodiment of an electro-optical device according to the invention.
2 is a diagram schematically showing a path (light is emitted once reflected) until light emitted from the light source part is emitted from the opening of the housing in the display device shown in FIG. 1;
3 is a diagram schematically showing a path (exited by three reflections) until light emitted from the light source part is emitted from the opening of the housing in the display device shown in FIG. 1. FIG.
4 is a diagram schematically showing a path (exiting four times of reflection) until light emitted from a light source part is emitted from an opening of a housing in the display device shown in FIG.
5 shows the display device shown in FIG. 1, in which the conditions of Equations 1, 2 and 3 are satisfied and n = 1, the aperture of the light source means, the microlens of the microlens array, and the liquid crystal panel It is a figure which shows typically arrangement | positioning (Ls = La) with no opening.
6 shows an opening of a light source means, a microlens of a microlens array, and a liquid crystal panel in the display device shown in FIG. 1 when the conditions of Equations 1, 2 and 3 are satisfied and n = 1. It is a figure which shows typically arrangement | positioning (Ls> La) with no opening.
FIG. 7 is a longitudinal sectional view schematically showing a configuration of a second embodiment of the electro-optical device of the invention.
FIG. 8 is a longitudinal sectional view schematically showing a configuration of a third embodiment of an electro-optical device according to the invention.
FIG. 9 shows a light amount distribution of light from each point light source and a light amount distribution when the light from each point light source is overlaid when the point light source pitch Ps is 2.5 (2.5σ). It is a graph to show.
FIG. 10 shows a light amount distribution of light from each point light source and a light amount distribution when the light from each point light source is superimposed when the point light source pitch Ps is 1.7 (1.7σ). It is a graph to show.
FIG. 11 is a graph showing a relationship between a point light source pitch Ps and a light amount ratio b / a.
FIG. 12 is a plan view schematically showing an opening of the liquid crystal panel and an image of the opening of the light source means on a plane passing through each opening of the liquid crystal panel in the fourth embodiment of the electro-optical device of the invention. is there.
FIG. 13 is a plan view schematically showing an opening of the liquid crystal panel and an image of the opening of the light source means on a plane passing through each opening of the liquid crystal panel in the fourth embodiment of the electro-optical device of the invention. is there.
FIG. 14 is a plan view schematically showing an opening of the liquid crystal panel and an image of the opening of the light source means on a plane passing through each opening of the liquid crystal panel in the fifth embodiment of the electro-optical device of the invention. is there.
FIG. 15 is a plan view schematically showing an opening of the liquid crystal panel and an image of the opening of the light source means on a plane passing through each opening of the liquid crystal panel according to the fifth embodiment of the electro-optical device of the invention. is there.
FIG. 16 is a plan view schematically showing an opening of the liquid crystal panel and an image of the opening of the light source means on a plane passing through each opening of the liquid crystal panel in the sixth embodiment of the electro-optical device of the invention. is there.
FIG. 17 is a plan view schematically showing an opening of the liquid crystal panel and an image of the opening of the light source means on a plane passing through each opening of the liquid crystal panel, according to the sixth embodiment of the electro-optical device of the invention. is there.
FIG. 18 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a configuration of a mobile personal computer (electronic device) to which the electro-optical device according to the embodiment of the invention is applied.
FIG. 19 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a configuration of a mobile phone (electronic device) in which the electro-optical device according to the embodiment of the invention is applied to a display unit thereof.
FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating an example of the configuration of a digital still camera (electronic device) in which the electro-optical device according to the embodiment of the invention is applied to the finder.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Display device (electro-optical device)
2 Light source means
21 Light source
22 Housing
221 Wall
23 Protrusions
24 Reflective film
25 opening
26 statues
261, 263 Short side
262, 264 long side
3 Micro lens array plate
30 substrates
31 Micro lens array
32 Microlens
4, 4a LCD panel
40 Transparent electrode
41 Substrate
42 Transparent electrode
43 Liquid crystal layer
44 Reflective film
45 opening
451, 453 short side
452, 454 long side
46 substrates
47, 48 Polarizer
49 Black Matrix
491 opening
5 Adhesive layer
61-64 light
71 plane
1100 Personal computer
1102 keyboard
1104 Body
1106 Display unit
1200 mobile phone
1202 Operation buttons
1204 earpiece
1206 Mouthpiece
1300 Digital still camera
1302 Case (Body)
1304 Light receiving unit
1306 Shutter button
1308 Circuit board
1312 Video signal output terminal
1314 I / O terminal for data communication
1430 TV monitor
1440 Personal computer

Claims (24)

An electro-optical device having a plurality of point light sources, a microlens array in which a plurality of microlenses are arranged, and a light modulation element having a plurality of light-transmissive windows,
The microlens array is configured so that light from the plurality of point light sources is condensed on the translucent window portion ,
The light from the point light source forms an image on a surface that passes through each of the light transmitting window portions, and the length in the first direction of the image of the point light source on the surface is the first length of the light transmitting window portion. The length in the second direction that is longer than the length in the direction and perpendicular to the first direction of the image of the point light source on the surface is greater than the length in the second direction of the light-transmitting window portion. An electro-optical device configured to be shortened . An electro-optical device having a plurality of point light sources, a microlens array in which a plurality of microlenses are arranged, and a light modulation element having a plurality of light-transmissive windows,
The point light source, the microlens of the microlens array, and the translucent window portion are arranged so that light from the plurality of point light sources is condensed on the translucent window portion by the microlens array. and,
The light from the point light source forms an image on a surface that passes through each of the light transmitting window portions, and the length in the first direction of the image of the point light source on the surface is the first length of the light transmitting window portion. The length in the second direction that is longer than the length in the direction and perpendicular to the first direction of the image of the point light source on the surface is greater than the length in the second direction of the light-transmitting window portion. An electro-optical device configured to be shortened . An electro-optical device having a plurality of point light sources, a microlens array in which a plurality of microlenses are arranged, and a light modulation element having a plurality of light-transmissive windows,
The point light source, the microlens of the microlens array, and the light transmitting window so that the microlens of the microlens array focuses light from the plurality of point light sources on the light transmitting window portions. Are arranged ,
The light from the point light source forms an image on a surface that passes through each of the light transmitting window portions, and the length in the first direction of the image of the point light source on the surface is the first length of the light transmitting window portion. The length in the second direction that is longer than the length in the direction and perpendicular to the first direction of the image of the point light source on the surface is greater than the length in the second direction of the light-transmitting window portion. An electro-optical device configured to be shortened . Light from the point light source forms an image on a surface that passes through each of the light transmitting window portions, and the light transmitting window portion is included in the image of the point light source on the surface in the first direction within the surface. and, in a second direction perpendicular to said first direction in said plane, the image of the point light source in said plane, the light transmitting window claim is configured to be encompassed section 1 4. The electro-optical device according to any one of items 3 to 3 . 5. The electro-optical device according to claim 1, wherein an outline of the image of the point light source on the surface has a pair of linear portions substantially parallel to the first direction. 6. The electro-optical device according to claim 1 , wherein an outline of the translucent window portion includes a pair of linear portions substantially parallel to the second direction. The pitch of the point light source is Ps, the pitch of the transparent window portion is Pa, the pitch of the micro lens of the micro lens array is PL, the optical distance between the point light source and the micro lens array is Ls, and the micro 7. The electro-optical device according to claim 1 , wherein the electro-optical device is configured so as to satisfy a condition represented by the following expression when an optical distance between a lens array and the light transmission window portion is La.
PL = {Ps · Pa / (Ps + Pa)} · n (where n is a natural number)
La / Ls = Pa / Ps The pitch of the point light source is Ps, the pitch of the transparent window portion is Pa, the pitch of the micro lens of the micro lens array is PL, the optical distance between the point light source and the micro lens array is Ls, and the micro when the optical distance between the lens array and the light transmitting window and La, the electro-optical device according to any one of claims 1 is constituted satisfy the condition represented by the following formula 6.
PL = {Ps · Pa / (Ps + Pa)} · n (where n is a natural number excluding 2)
La / Ls = Pa / Ps 9. The electro-optical device according to claim 7 , wherein a pitch Ps of the point light sources is larger than a pitch Pa of the light transmission window portions. The electro-optical device according to claim 7 , wherein a pitch Ps of the point light sources is equal to a pitch Pa of the light transmission window portions. The pitch of the point light sources is set so that the amount of light from the plurality of point light sources is substantially uniform on the surface that penetrates each light-transmitting window portion when the microlens array is not provided. The electro-optical device according to claim 1 . In a state where the microlens array is not provided, when the standard deviation of the light amount distribution of the light from the point light source on the surface passing through each of the light transmitting window portions is σ, the pitch of the point light source is 2.3σ or less. The electro-optical device according to claim 1 . In the state where the microlens array is not provided, when the maximum value of the light amount of the light from the plurality of point light sources on the surface passing through each light transmission window is a and the minimum value is b, the pitch of the point light sources is 11. The electro-optical device according to claim 1 , wherein the light quantity ratio b / a is set to be 0.9 or more. The light from the point light source forms an image on a surface passing through each of the light transmitting window portions, and the area of the portion where the image of the point light source and the light transmitting window portion overlap on the surface is the image of the point light source. The electro-optical device according to claim 1 , wherein the electro-optical device is configured so as not to change as much as possible even when the light transmitting window portion and the light transmitting window portion are relatively displaced. The area of the surface where the image of the point light source and the transparent window portion overlap is such that the image of the point light source and the transparent window portion are in the first direction in the plane and / or the first. 15. The electro-optical device according to claim 14 , wherein the electro-optical device is configured so as not to change as much as possible even when it is shifted relative to a second direction perpendicular to the direction. The electro-optical device according to claim 1 , wherein a shape of the light transmission window portion is a substantially square or a substantially rectangular shape, and a shape of an image of the point light source on the surface is a substantially square or a substantially rectangular shape. . 17. The electro-optical device according to claim 16 , wherein a predetermined side of the translucent window portion and a predetermined side of the image of the point light source on the surface are substantially parallel. The electro-optical device according to claim 1 , wherein the micro lens array is a micro Fresnel lens array. The electro-optical device according to claim 1 , wherein the microlens array is formed by injection molding or a 2P method. The electro-optical device according to claim 1 , wherein the light modulation element is a transmissive liquid crystal panel or a transflective liquid crystal panel. The electro-optical device according to claim 1 , wherein the light modulation element is a transflective liquid crystal panel. The electro-optical device according to claim 1 , wherein the electro-optical device is a direct-view type or a projection type display device. 23. An electronic apparatus comprising the electro-optical device according to claim 1 . The electronic device according to claim 23 , wherein the electronic device is a personal computer, a mobile phone, or a digital still camera.

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